June 17, 1959 - August 14, 2023
In loving memory ~
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Darlene Kim Babich (nee Eklund).
She passed peacefully surrounded by her loving family on August 14, 2023, in Innisfail, Alberta. Darlene was born in Edmonton, Alberta, on June 17, 1959.
The family would settle in Red Deer where Darlene resided for most of her life with a brief few years in Fort St John, B.C. She lived her final 15 months in Innisfail at the Rosefield long-term care facility.
Her life was lived with love, strength, courage, determination, dignity and just a little stubbornness. These attributes carried her through her long battle with MS.
As a teen, Darlene worked for Ponderosa Restaurant, her father's company (Eklund's Oilfield Service) as an office receptionist and part time roughneck (lol). She then moved on to Versa Services and finally into Pay & Benefits at Michener Centre, before having to go on medical leave due to MS.
Darlene loved sports; she was an exceptional athlete. She played basketball, golf and fastball (position back catcher). Darlene also played broomball for several years with the "Eklund Spirits", along with her sister Denise. She loved her road trips, where many good friends and memories were made along the way.
Summer was for watching tennis and her beloved "Blue Jays". Winters were all about hockey. She was an Edmonton Oilers fan and rarely missed watching a game. Darlene was a long-time Red Deer Rebels season ticket holder and was able to see them in action this past February, a true highlight!
Her love of family was first and foremost. Her husband Darrel, and children Brianne and Brett were her centre, everything she did was for them. Darlene loved their dog Darwin and missed him terribly when he passed.
Darlene was part of a close loving family. So many memories of laughter, friendship, arguing and support. We not only loved each other but liked each other. She leaves behind to mourn her loss: Mother Anne, sisters Kandy, Debbie (Dan), Denise (Greg) and brother Darren (Tracey). Nieces Jamie (Jaret), Lindsay (Reece), and Meghan (Landon). Nephews Scott (Kristy), Michael, Jake (Brooke), Eric & 4 great-nephews and 3 great-nieces. Darlene was predeceased by her father Gordon.
She also leaves behind her beloved friend/sister Delamae of 50 years. She loved you "to the moon and back". Our family would like to express our appreciation and thanks, for everything that you did for Darlene.
A special mention to her friend and masseuse Suzanne. Darlene looked so forward to Thursdays!
A big thank you to her Rosefield tablemates Pat and Joe for their friendship, looking out for her and being "her guys"!
Darlene...you have left a hole that can't be filled and you are and will be missed by all who loved you. Rest in peace sweetheart.
You will always be
"the favourite sister".